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Austin

Maxi 2 (last of line), 1981

Image copyright © BMIHT
Make
Austin
Manufacturer
British Leyland
Location Made
Cowley
Accession Number
1980-1-44
Collection
BMIHT Vehicle Collection
Type
Car
Status
Permanent collection
Engine
4 cyl, 1748 cc, 72 bhp
Fuel
Petrol
Top Speed
90 mph (145 km/h)
Body Style
Hatchback
Price When New
£4,884
Materials
metal, rubber, plastics, glass, textiles
Dimensions
4039mm (l), 1626mm (w), 1384mm (h)
Location
Collections Centre

The Maxi was BL's first new product and featured the usual transverse engine, front wheel drive and Hydrolastic suspension. New features included a hatchback and the all-new OHC E-series engine and five-speed gearbox.

The new car was already almost ready for launch when BL was formed in 1968. When BL chief Donald Stokes saw the Maxi he insisted the styling was improved and so a new front end and fascia were designed, delaying the release for a year.

Manufacture ceased in 1981 with a final production of just under half-a-million.

This is the last Maxi to roll off the Cowley manufacturing lines.